Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Space
  • /
  • NASA comes to London to advance microgravity research

Space Events

NASA comes to London to advance microgravity research

Leading space experts from around the world gathered at the Royal Institution today to discuss the future of microgravity research and human presence in low Earth orbit.

Above: UK Space Agency, NASA and international partners at the LEO Microgravity Strategy Workshop in London.
Courtesy UKSA

NASA worked with the UK Space Agency to co-host the workshop, which builds on the success of two previous events held in 2022 and 2023.

The workshop brings together international partners to refine draft goals and objectives that will set strategic directions for the space community on scientific, exploration and commercial goals in low Earth Orbit (LEO).

Advertisement
ODU RT

A key focus of the workshop surrounds discussion on future low Earth orbit infrastructure. As new commercial space stations come online, there is an increased focus on preserving and expanding research capabilities and developing critical technologies for future deep space exploration.

The UK Space Agency is actively exploring how best to maximise the research, development and manufacturing opportunities this presents, and how to work constructively with international partners to support the transition.

More broadly, microgravity research is not only vital for space exploration, but also delivers benefits to Earth. It allows scientists to study biological, physical and chemical processes without the influence of Earth’s gravity, which has led to advancements in fields such as medicine, material science and fluid dynamics.

One important example is drug development, where protein crystal growth experiments conducted on the ISS have provided improvements to the treatment of numerous diseases including cancers and gum disease. Promising results have come from the study of a protein associated with the chronic genetic disorder Duchenne Muscle Dystrophy (DMD). Treatment for DMD is now in clinical trials – based on research from the ISS.

The study of fluid dynamics in microgravity also helps advance essential medical technologies such as life support systems.

Advertisement
Siemens rectangle

Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency, said: "We are proud of the UK’s role in space as a competent and reliable international partner. We will continue to work closely with NASA, ESA and other space agencies to ensure that microgravity research continues. As we navigate a rapidly evolving global landscape, the ability to contribute to cutting-edge research and innovation is crucial for driving economic growth and spreading prosperity across the country.

"After almost 24 years of continuous operation, the ISS is nearing the end of its life, and we will see a range of new commercial space stations established in Low Earth Orbit. It is vitally important that we maintain the ability to safely conduct science and research in space that benefits people on Earth."

NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy said: "We are grateful to the UK Space Agency for co-hosting our international Low Earth Orbit Microgravity Strategy Workshop. Consultation with our international partners is a cornerstone for guiding future research and development in microgravity. Our approach underscores our dedication to integrating diverse viewpoints to navigate the dynamic landscape of low Earth orbit."

A number of UK science experiments have been launched to the ISS in recent years. These include the MicroAge experiment with the University of Liverpool, which investigated how muscle fibres change in space, providing insights into the ageing process.

Advertisement
Amentum banner Amentum banner
ADS reveals 2024 value of aerospace, defence, security and space to Scotland

Aerospace Defence Security Space

ADS reveals 2024 value of aerospace, defence, security and space to Scotland

11 September 2025

The aerospace, defence, security and space sectors added £3.7 billion to Scotland’s economy in 2024, according to new data from ADS, equating to a 55% increase between 2020 and 2024.

Andrew Stanniland appointed as Managing Director, MDA Space UK

Space

Andrew Stanniland appointed as Managing Director, MDA Space UK

10 September 2025

MDA Space Ltd. has appointed Andrew Stanniland as Managing Director, MDA Space UK, effective from today.

Filtronic secures record breaking SpaceX order

Space

Filtronic secures record breaking SpaceX order

9 September 2025

Sedgefield based designer and manufacturer of advanced RF and microwave solutions, Filtronic, has secured its largest ever contract - valued at £47.3 million ($62.5m) - with its long-standing customer, SpaceX, for the Starlink high-speed internet service.

Oxford Space Systems and Lacuna Space deploy two helical antennas

Space

Oxford Space Systems and Lacuna Space deploy two helical antennas

5 September 2025

Oxford Space Systems and Lacuna Space have successfully deployed an additional two Oxford Space Systems helical antennas to add to Lacuna Space’s growing satellite Internet of Things (IoT) constellation.

Advertisement
Amentum rectangle
Boeing X-37B Spaceplane launches on eighth mission

Space

Boeing X-37B Spaceplane launches on eighth mission

27 August 2025

The Boeing built X 37B Orbital Test Vehicle has launched on its eighth mission, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Kennedy Space Center, Florida and the vehicle is healthy on orbit and standard checkout.

Bright Ascension expands into US

Space

Bright Ascension expands into US

27 August 2025

Bright Ascension has officially launched its new US entity, Bright Ascension Inc.

Advertisement
Leonardo